After a long and rugged journey up the Dempster Highway—marked by nights spent in questionable motels and even the back of my car—I was more than ready for a bit of comfort and calm.
When I arrived in Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon, I found exactly that—and more—at the Hyatt Place Whitehorse. From the moment I stepped into the sparkling new lobby, I knew I had checked into something special.
In this post, I’ll share my honest thoughts on the Hyatt Place Whitehorse, how it compares to other Whitehorse hotels I’ve stayed at, and why it might just be the best place to stay in Whitehorse.
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I’ve visited Whitehorse several times over the years, staying in hotels all across the city. From the Ramada Whitehorse Hotel to the Best Western Whitehorse Hotel and the Edgewater Hotel Whitehorse, I’ve experienced the full range of accommodation options this northern outpost offers.
Each had its quirks, but none quite delivered on all fronts—until now. Check out my thoughts on how other Canadian hotel stays compare, like my experience at Le Germain Québec.
First Impressions: Location & Check-In Experience
The Hyatt Place Whitehorse is centrally located on Main Street, right in the heart of downtown. Its modern, eye-catching exterior stands out in a city better known for practical buildings and historic facades.
Inside, the lobby is sleek and welcoming, accented by local Indigenous artwork and bright natural light from oversized windows.
Check-in was efficient and genuinely friendly—staff greeted me with the kind of warm Northern hospitality that you don’t often find at chain hotels. The front desk team was helpful with tips on where to eat and what to explore nearby.
After days on the road, this effortless arrival set the tone for what turned out to be an exceptionally relaxing stay.
The Room: Stylish Comfort with Thoughtful Touches
I booked a King Room and was immediately impressed with how spacious and thoughtfully designed it was. The décor blends warm woods with clean lines and subtle nods to the Yukon’s culture, including Aboriginal motifs in the art pieces and finishes. It felt upscale without trying too hard.
The king-sized bed was easily one of the most comfortable I’ve slept in—firm yet plush, with quality linens that made it tempting to sleep in far longer than planned.
Next to it, a cozy sectional couch offered a perfect space to unwind, watch TV, or sip a cup of coffee. The pull-out bed in the couch makes this room an excellent option for families or groups.
Another standout was the espresso machine, a rarity in most northern hotels and a definite upgrade from your typical in-room drip coffee maker.
The large flat-screen TV, ample USB outlets, and thoughtfully designed workspace made the room ideal for both relaxation and getting a bit of work done.
The bathroom was equally impressive. It featured a rainfall shower with strong water pressure, modern finishes, and plenty of counter space. After spending nights in roadside motels, this was pure bliss.
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Dining & Amenities: What Really Sets It Apart
Unlike many hotels in remote northern cities, the Hyatt Place Whitehorse actually encourages you to linger, not just sleep. A large part of this is thanks to its thoughtful amenities and food and drink options.
Carved, the hotel’s stylish and locally inspired restaurant, is located just off the lobby and offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience. The menu highlights seasonal ingredients and showcases northern flavors with a contemporary twist.
With an open-concept kitchen and modern wood-accented décor, the space feels both upscale and welcoming—perfect for a quiet dinner or a lively social evening.
During my stay, it quickly became my go-to for evening meals thanks to its relaxed vibe and surprisingly good selection of local Yukon beers and craft cocktails.
One of the more unexpected features is the outdoor patio, a rare find in Whitehorse. In the summer months, it’s a fantastic place to enjoy your morning coffee or relax with a drink in the evening. It’s small but cozy, with string lights and planters that give it a welcoming touch.
For travelers needing to stay active, the hotel offers a 24-hour fitness centre that’s far better equipped than most hotels in the region. With treadmills, free weights, and space for yoga or stretching, it’s a great way to stay in routine while on the road. There’s also a 24/7 market near the front desk offering snacks, drinks, and travel essentials for when you’re on the go.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that the Hyatt Place Whitehorse is pet-friendly, making it a great option for road trippers exploring the Yukon with their furry friends.
Where to Eat: Best Whitehorse Restaurants Nearby
One of the best perks of staying at the Hyatt Place Whitehorse is its proximity to some of the best Whitehorse restaurants. Here are my top picks:
- Burnt Toast Café – A local favorite for brunch with hearty options and great coffee, just a 2-minute walk away.
- Klondike Rib and Salmon – This rustic eatery serves up Yukon-style comfort food in a historic building. Try the grilled Arctic char or—you guessed it—the ribs.
- Miners Daughter Whitehorse – Attached to the Dirty Northern Public House, this spot offers an elevated take on pub food. Think wild game sausage, fresh seafood, and a solid Yukon beer list.
If food and drink experiences are part of your travel priorities, you may also enjoy my post on exploring Victoria’s food & drink scene.
Exploring Downtown Whitehorse: Things to Do Nearby
The hotel’s Main Street location makes it easy to explore the best of Whitehorse on foot. One morning, I rented a bike and cruised along the scenic Yukon River waterfront, a peaceful path lined with interpretive signage, Indigenous totem poles, and local artwork.
This trail leads to the SS Klondike, a beautifully restored paddle wheeler that once ferried passengers and freight up and down the river during the Yukon’s Gold Rush days. It’s a must-see piece of history, especially for those interested in the heritage of the region.
Just outside of downtown, a short drive brings you to the stunning Miles Canyon, where the turquoise waters of the Yukon River have carved through ancient basalt rock.
A narrow suspension bridge spans the canyon, offering dramatic views that are especially photogenic in the early morning or evening light. The surrounding trails are ideal for a quiet nature walk or a photo session.
If you’d prefer to explore with a local expert, I highly recommend this Whitehorse city and nature tour. It’s a great way to hit all the highlights with added context and stories you might otherwise miss.
And for those looking to extend their adventure beyond city limits, consider booking this unforgettable Skagway group tour from Whitehorse. You’ll cross into Alaska via the stunning Klondike Highway and visit one of the most charming frontier towns in the north—perfect for a day trip.
Whitehorse also serves as a jumping-off point for some of the best road trips in the north. I highly recommend extending your stay with a drive to Dawson City, a quirky, charming gold rush town that feels frozen in time. While there, don’t miss the iconic Sourtoe Cocktail experience—yes, it involves a real toe.
Also see: Alaska Ferry Travel Guide if you’re planning to link up your Yukon adventure with a journey south. If your trip includes a cruise or ferry connection, don’t miss these guides to the best things to do in Juneau and the top attractions in Ketchikan—two popular Alaska ports you can connect to via the Inside Passage. And if you enjoy visiting off-the-radar Canadian cities, I’ve got you covered with 5 reasons to visit Yellowknife in the fall and my Sudbury travel guide.
How the Hyatt Place Compares to Other Whitehorse Hotels
Having visited Whitehorse several times over the years, I’ve had the opportunity (and sometimes misfortune) of staying in a range of hotels across town.
From functional motels to locally owned inns, Whitehorse accommodations have historically been about practicality more than comfort. But that’s exactly what makes the Hyatt Place Whitehorse such a game-changer.
Let’s start with the Ramada Whitehorse Hotel. This property is located closer to the airport than downtown, which isn’t ideal for visitors who want to be in the heart of the action. While the Ramada offers standard rooms and an attached restaurant, the overall feel is dated and lacks the polish and amenities many travelers now expect. It’s fine for a quick overnight, but you’ll likely spend more on taxis getting into the city core.
The Best Western Gold Rush Inn Whitehorse is more centrally located and has long been a go-to for business travelers. However, it’s showing its age. The rooms are smaller, noise from Main Street and the in-house bar can be an issue, and the lack of modern updates is noticeable. That said, the lobby’s frontier theme gives it a certain charm—if you don’t mind the creaky floors and vintage vibe.
Then there’s the Edgewater Hotel Whitehorse, which is possibly the most boutique-feeling of the legacy properties in town. It’s cozy, well-located near the waterfront, and offers decent service. But the rooms are compact, there’s no gym, and it lacks the modern conveniences offered by newer properties.
The Hyatt Place Whitehorse easily outpaces these options in almost every category. With its brand-new construction, elegant design, spacious rooms, and amenities like an on-site restaurant, fitness centre, outdoor patio, and 24-hour market, it redefines what a Whitehorse hotel can be.
From the comfortable beds and espresso machines to the location right on Main Street, it’s clear that this hotel was built with today’s traveler in mind.
So while the Ramada Whitehorse Hotel, Best Western Whitehorse Hotel, and Edgewater Hotel Whitehorse each have their roles—whether it’s affordability, location, or charm—none come close to the balance of style, comfort, and convenience that the Hyatt delivers.
It’s raised the bar for hospitality in the Yukon and sets a new standard for what visitors should expect when staying in Whitehorse.
Final Thoughts: Is Hyatt Place Whitehorse Worth It?
Absolutely. Whether you’re just passing through, ending a rugged road trip, or spending a few days exploring the Yukon, the Hyatt Place Whitehorse is hands-down the most comfortable and convenient place to stay in town. With thoughtful design, friendly service, and a killer location, it’s worth every penny.
📍 Book your stay at Hyatt Place Whitehorse here
If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Whitehorse, this property should be at the top of your list. And if you’re into travel bucket lists, don’t miss my Tragically Hip travel bucket list experience.
FAQs: Hyatt Place Whitehorse
Is there parking at Hyatt Place Whitehorse?
Yes, there is parking in the back for $15/day. There is also plenty of street parking nearby.
Does the Hyatt Place Whitehorse Hotel have a restaurant?
Yes. Carved and Lobby Lounge offer casual dining and local drinks, and there’s also a 24/7
Is the Hyatt Place Whitehorse pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are welcome for an additional fee.
What attractions are near the Hyatt Place Whitehorse?
The hotel is near the Yukon River, SS Klondike, and Miles Canyon.
How far is it to Dawson City?
Roughly a 6-hour drive, and well worth the trip!
What say you?
Thoughts on this Hyatt Place Whitehorse hotel review?
For more reviews from Whitehorse and beyond, see HERE.
